Irish Rail has said there is currently “no plan, no policy, no funding, and no project” to reinstate the railway line between Midleton and Youghal. He said Irish Rail hopes to apply for planning permission “in the next couple of weeks” for new park and ride railway stations at Dunkettle and Kilbarry in Blackpool. Irish Rail intends to place an order for 21 new electric trains, at a cost of €280m, in 2028. Mr Cronin said he is aware of capacity issues and Irish Rail is trying to acquire additional rolling stock to address this. The East Cork Rail Alliance, which has collected 20,000 signatures to have the Youghal line reopened, is to address the East Cork Municipal District Council next month.

Source: Irish Examiner January 06, 2026 04:57 UTC